Premier League Injuries: Wigan to feel Ramis absence

 

Ivan Ramis and Mikel Arteta will be big losses for their clubs this weekend, while James Collins' injury will give James Tomkins a chance to shine...

 

James Collins - West Ham v QPR (Saturday, 15:00)

Since rejoining West Ham in the summer for his second spell with the Irons, Collins has become a real fixture in the starting line-up at the Boleyn Ground - making 18 appearances to date this season. The no-nonsense Welshman does have his critics among Hammers fans though, even after his recent two-goal performance against Manchester United, where he showed his aerial prowess going forward. One possible negative effect of Collins' re-emergence however, has been the splitting up of last season's first-choice pairing of Winston Reid and James Tomkins, who had built up a great understanding. That partnership should be resurrected against QPR, and notably, the east Londoners have only lost one of the four other league games that Collins missed.

Recommended Bet: Back West Ham to keep a clean sheet @ 2.9

 

Ivan Ramis - Wigan v Sunderland (Saturday, 15:00)

The news was always going to be bleak following Ramis' departure on a stretcher during the final minutes of Wigan's 1-1 draw with Fulham. And sure enough, Roberto Martinez's worst fears have been confirmed as the ex-Mallorca defender is going to miss the rest of the season with a knee injury after undergoing surgery. This is a massive blow to the Latics as the Spaniard has been the standout performer in the centre of their defensive unit. In fact, the last time Ramis was missing for a period before Christmas, Wigan endured their worst run of the season; losing five out of six games in his absence while conceding an average of two goals a game.

Recommended Bet: Back Sunderland to beat Wigan @ 3.85

 

Mikel Arteta - Chelsea v Arsenal (Sunday, 13:30, Sky Sports 1)

Arteta has been a near ever-present in the heart of the Gunners midfield this season and has built a formidable understanding with his compatriot Santi Carzola and England man Jack Wilshere. However, the Spaniard has now injured a calf in training and won't be available for Sunday's vital trip to fellow Champions League chasers Chelsea. Arteta is well regarded for his technical ability, though few give him enough credit for the protection he offers the back four. Arsenal struggled to contain the fluid Chelsea midfield at home when losing 2-1 back in the early autumn and, with Abou Diaby still finding his feet after yet another return from injury, the Blues may have the upper hand in that area once more.

Recommended Bet: Back Chelsea to beat Arsenal @ 1.98

 

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